First complex breast reconstruction performed at JHAH

August, 2019, Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in Saudi Arabia, occurring most commonly around the age of 52 (Ministry of Health, 20180). This is close to a decade younger than women in the U.S. and Australia. Prevention is key; however, when treatment is required, the range of options available to breast cancer patients atJohns Hopkins Aramco Healthcare (JHAH) is steadily expanding. 

The first bilateral free-TRAM muscle sparing breast reconstruction surgery in the Eastern Province was conducted on July 18 by a team of surgeons in the JHAH Dhahran Health Center. Breast reconstruction is a surgical procedure that restores shape to the breast after a woman has had her breast removed to treat or prevent breast cancer.

A more confident future for women following cancer prevention or treatment

Muscle sparing TRAM surgery involves taking a section of tissue from the lower part of the patient’s abdomen and using it to create a new breast as free tissue transfer under microscope using microsurgery technique. The complex procedure was performed by Dr. Hasan AlAjmi, Consultant plastic surgeon, and Dr. Mohamed Mahmoud, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, supported by a JHAH plastic surgery team. “TRAM muscle-sparing breast reconstruction surgery is the optimal reconstructive option for patients who want to use their own tissue and have natural breasts, especially when both breasts are involved,” said Dr. AlAjmi.

At the JHAH Oncology Institute, a multidisciplinary team of oncology specialists provides a comprehensive review of each breast cancer case and creates a personalized treatment plan for each patient. Your team includes medical oncologists, radiologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists, pathologists, nurses and support services as needed.